Sheikh Murtadho Muhammad, the Chief Imam of Uromi and President of the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) for the Edo-Delta region, has reportedly been kidnapped by unidentified gunmen.

The abduction occurred around 2 p.m. on Thursday in the Angle 90 area of Uromi, located in Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to eyewitnesses, the Islamic cleric had gone out to purchase food for his family shortly after completing one of the daily prayers when he was forcibly taken by the armed assailants.

Alhaji Abdulazeez Igbinidu, Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), confirmed the abduction and strongly condemned the act. He called for the immediate and unconditional release of Sheikh Muhammad.

“There are reports that a huge ransom is being demanded, but we don’t have that kind of money,” Igbinidu said. “Even if someone could pay it, doing so would only encourage further criminal activity.”

He urged the Edo State government to take stronger measures to safeguard residents, emphasizing the need for effective security measures to prevent such incidents.

“The government has the responsibility and the resources for maintaining security. They must act swiftly to ensure the Imam is released unharmed,” he added. “Citizens deserve to live without constant fear of abduction or violence.”

A family member disclosed that the kidnappers have reached out and are demanding a ransom of ₦30 million for Sheikh Muhammad’s release.

The incident has caused alarm within the local Muslim community, particularly due to the Imam’s prominent role as both a religious leader and a champion for youth development.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed receiving the report on July 10, 2025, and stated that efforts are underway to rescue the victim and apprehend the perpetrators.